GreenKeeper University celebrated and recognized its first graduating class.  This inaugural class captured the diverse array of turf professionals that can benefit from online education in GreenKeeper University.  They proved how the CEO of a golf management firm, an experienced superintendent, a new superintendent, and an aspiring turfgrass professional can successfully complete the program and better their careers as a result.

Superintendent Scott Denil of Pine Meadow Golf Club (Mundelein, IL) with his GreenKeeper University Diploma.

The knowledge I gained from GKU has been invaluable to my growth here at my facility,” said Scott Denil, Superintendent at Pine Meadow Golf Club in Mundelein, IL.  “The support from all the instructors at GKU exceeded all expectations.  Relationships and assistance didn’t end when the classes were over.  The projects/assignments were geared so you could apply it to your location.   That was a big help in grasping the concepts presented.  I am a much-improved superintendent because of GKU.”

Scott Denil using the Web Soil Survey as part of his online coursework for Dr. Soldat’s Turf Soil Management course.

Joseph St. Lawrence is new to the field of golf course management and was looking for online learning opportunities.  “As a new golf course superintendent, I wanted an official degree. I have now obtained that. My goal is to continue broadening my knowledge of turf management.”

Superintendent Joseph St. Lawrence accomplished his goals with a diploma from GreenKeeper University.

Andrew Porubiansky had a 4-year business degree and wanted to make a career change.  Andrew said, “When I chose the turfgrass path, I needed formal turfgrass training.  GKU is a great alternative for someone looking for turfgrass education, but does not want to pay for a 4-year degree.”

Patrick Sauder used his GreenKeeper University education to be a role model of continuing education at his golf management company.

As the CEO of a Swiss golf management company, Patrick Sauder lacks both the time and opportunity to attend courses at an American university campus, however, he wanted to learn from university faculty.  “American turfgrass science is known for its reputation.  My goal is to constantly develop my skills and knowledge and be a role model for my employees in this respect.”

The first five graduates of the program include:

Scott Denil – Superintendent at Pine Meadow Golf Club – Mundelein, IL

Patrick Sauder – CEO at Renovita Wilen GmbH – Wil SG, St. Gallen, Switzerland

Joseph St. Lawrence – Superintendent at Farmington Country Club – Milton, NH

Andrew Porubiansky – Superintendent at Piedmont Driving Club – Carrollton, GA

Jake Dunn – Superintendent at Forest Hills Golf Course – Onalaska, WI

About GreenKeeper – GreenKeeper’s vision is to transform how the turf industry makes daily decisions as we discover and share research with the world.  GreenKeeper App is an essential decision support tool designed exclusively for the turfgrass industry.  GreenKeeper University is an online educational program that offers courses in the field of turfgrass science.  It is an educational option intended for people who want a more in-depth training than is traditionally offered by short courses or other non-degree options.

To learn more about GreenKeeper University or register for 2023 courses, visit LearnTurf.com